I always thought it was cliché to hear other parents proclaim, “I drink coffee until it’s an acceptable time to drink wine!” Until I started to become that cliché.* I know I can’t be the only one.
Now, that the warm weather is here, nothing hits the spot quite like a chilled Rosé or sauvignon blanc. So if wine is your jam, it’s time to grab your besties and head to four epic wine festivals. They might not be the Catalina Wine Mixer (Yes, that’s a real thing.), but you can sip your way through these four wine fests and pretend you’re there.
Solstice Hop & Vine Fest
When: June 13, 6-9 p.m.
Where: Schaumburg
Cost: $30
The annual celebration is hosted at Meineke Park and features exciting vendors such as Lynfred Winery, Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Granite City Food & Brewery, Leaky Keg Brewing and Village Vintner Winery & Brewery. Tickets are $30 and sell out quickly, so snag yours quick. Your admission includes a commemorative wine or beer glass. Proceeds benefit recreation scholarships and other projects of the Schaumburg Park Foundation.
Chicago Rosé Day
When: June 24, 1-7 p.m.
Where: River North, Chicago
Cost: $10
The tagline of this event is “Rosé is everything.” Well, no duh. Rosé has quickly risen to the top of the wine food chain. So much so, that there are festivals paying homage to the pink drink. Don your finest pink and white attire for a day of extravagance and indulgence!
Uncork Barrington
When: July 6, 6-9:30 p.m.
Where: Barrington
Cost: Starting at $25
Jump aboard the Metra to Barrington’s annual Uncork event. (FYI – Metra is a great designated driver.) Upon entry, you will be provided with a passport to guide you through your culinary experience. Additionally, guests will be provided with a souvenir glass to use during the tasting of 50 wines from various wine vendors. This charitable wine-tasting event is a huge moneymaker for local nonprofit organizations such as Barrington United Way, CareerPlace, Barrington Area Council on Aging, Barrington Youth and Family Services and many more.
Rosé on the Water
When: July 20, 7:30-10:30 p.m.
Where: Navy Pier
Cost: $85
#RoseAllDay #NowayRose Ok, enough of the hashtags. What goes best with Rosé? Boats! Climb aboard and get ready to set sail. Take in the beautiful scenic views of the iconic Chicago skyline while you sip. Tickets include popular rosés from the 90+ Cellars portfolio, including Lot 33 Rosé, Reserve Provence Rosé, Sparkling Rosé and Lila Rosé, plus food to nosh on.
Please note: All festivals require guests be 21 and older to attend. You must also present a valid ID that will be checked at the entrance.
This article has been updated with the most recent information. It was originally published on May 26, 2017.
